Yesterday I spent the day judging at the 4-H Exhibit Day at the Hancock County Fair in Britt, Iowa. I judged several project areas including Visual Arts, Poster Art, Child Development, Consumer Management, Health, Leadership, Citizenship, and Self-Determined.
I've been judging 4-H communication contests and county fairs for the last eight years. I love learning new things from the 4-Hers and coming home with fun ideas. Another added perk is that it is a nice way to get some extra spending cash.
I feel like 4-H helped shape me to be the person I am today, and by judging, it is one way of giving back to the organization. I hope I have
encouraged 4-Hers I have
evaluated to explore their interests and
educate themselves more in those areas. By doing those things I believe I have helped strengthen their life skills of leadership, communication and citizenship.
If you are from Iowa and are interested in becoming a 4-H judge, right now is the perfect time to start! Starting in October, there will be
Judges Trainings in Ames, Calmar, Marion, Storm Lake, Iowa City, Algona, Carson and Osceola, through March. Judges Training builds knowledge and skills needed for a quality judging experience. It also gives you an opportunity to practice before direct interaction with 4-Hers. For experienced judges, the training provides revised and updated resources.
Are you a 4-H Judge - why do you enjoy judging? Are you interested in becoming a 4-H Judge - what questions do you have about judging?